Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects women, causing dryness in the mouth and eyes, but also impacting other areas like the vagina. It can occur alone (primary SS) or alongside other autoimmune conditions (secondary SS).

Sexual dysfunction is common among SS patients, with many experiencing symptoms like vaginal dryness, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), and reduced sexual desire. Factors contributing to sexual issues include hormonal imbalances, psychosocial factors, and disease-related symptoms such as musculoskeletal issues.

Studies suggest that open communication with partners and adaptive coping strategies can improve sexual function and reduce distress for all individuals, especially those with sexual dysfunction. Now, a new study aims to explore various factors influencing sexual health in SS patients, including gynecological and musculoskeletal symptoms, disease activity, and relationship dynamics. Understanding these factors can help healthcare providers better support SS patients in managing their sexual health.

The study involved 102 patients with Sjögren’s syndrome (60 with primary SS and 42 with secondary SS) as well as 52 healthy individuals. Patients were diagnosed based on specific criteria, and disease activity was assessed using various indicators. Questionnaires on gynecological symptoms, sexuality, quality of life, anxiety, and depression were completed by all participants. Modified questionnaires tailored for SS patients were used to assess the impact of the disease on sexuality and physical activities.

The results showed that patients with primary SS experienced more vaginal dryness, vulvar dryness, and dyspareunia compared to patients with secondary SS and healthy controls. Primary SS patients reported more negative effects on their sexual ability and relationships than secondary SS patients.

Menopausal patients were more likely to experience reduced sexual desire, while premenopausal patients were more sexually active and willing to consider medication for sexual problems. Overall, symptoms like vaginal dryness and reduced sexual desire significantly impacted sexual ability in both primary and secondary SS patients, with primary SS patients being more affected.

Interestingly, the majority of the individuals with Sjögren’s syndrome stated that sexual activity was not important or was less important. The authors suggested that sociocultural factors may influence this population’s perceptions of sexual activity’s importance.

Few of the participants had discussed sexual problems with their healthcare providers before the study. Despite hesitancy, the patients were willing to talk about sexual issues. Therefore, this study underscores the importance of discussing sexual health with Sjögren’s syndrome patients, even if disease activity is low, and highlights the need for greater awareness and support regarding sexual issues in this population.

References:

• Ozdemir Isik, O., Temiz Karadag, D., Tekeoglu, S., Yazici, A., & Cefle, A. (2024). Gynecological symptoms in primary and secondary Sjögren’s syndrome and the effect of the disease on sexuality. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 21(3), 248–254. https://doi.org/10.1093/jsxmed/qdae004